Record interest expected as Gothia Cup opens registration

The world’s largest youth tournament is now opening registration for the 2026 edition. The tournament is expected to be bigger than ever, but even more important is its role as a global meeting place.
– Gothia Cup has a unique opportunity to connect young people from all over the world, says Tournament Director Niclas Freiholtz.

Between July 12 and 18 next year, tens of thousands of young players will gather in Gothenburg for a week filled with football, friendship and encounters across national and cultural boundaries. Registration for next year’s tournament opens today, and interest from teams worldwide is expected to keep growing. Ahead of the 2025 edition, all categories were fully booked as early as November.
– Gothia Cup has always been more than a football tournament. It is a global meeting place where young people form friendships, learn about each other’s cultures and share their love for the game. This fiftieth edition, we believe, will be the biggest and most inclusive tournament ever, says Niclas Freiholtz, Tournament Director of Gothia Cup.

A global phenomenon – and a local pride
Since its start in 1975, almost 1.4 million players from more than 150 nations have taken part in the tournament. Gothia Cup has become a unique symbol of the power of youth sports and the human understanding that arises when people meet on the pitch – regardless of language, religion or background. 
An understanding whose importance cannot be overstated, according to Freiholtz.
– Every year we see the tremendous impact Gothia Cup has – not only on youth football, but on what it means for young people. In a world of filter bubbles and polarization, we are a counterforce that creates community and understanding. At the same time, the tournament is invaluable for Gothenburg, which transforms into a global meeting place and welcomes tens of thousands of visitors. Our ambition is to continue growing globally and to cement Gothia Cup’s role as the most important meeting place for youth in the world, says Niclas Freiholtz.